Makhaya Ntini quits International cricket

Veteran South African fast bowler Makhaya Ntini - South Africa's second-highest Test wicket-taker and an immensely popular cricketer - announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket, bringing the curtains down on a glittering career spanning 12 years. Ntini, however, said he will continue to be available for domestic matches. His last match will be South Africa's T20 International against India on January 9 at Durban. The 33-year old had played his last Test for South Africa at Kingsmead, Durban in December 2009 against England.

Ntini created history by becoming the first black African cricketer to represent South Africa on his debut in 1998. He enjoyed a hugely successful career with the Proteas, playing in 101 Tests and bagging 390 wickets to finish as the second most successful bowler for South Africa after Shaun Pollock. In ODIs, he had 266 scalps from 173 matches.

While announcing his decision, Ntini said that he would still like to be part of the domestic cricket set-up, and also give back to cricket.

"It has been a wonderful journey for me to represent my country," an emotional Ntini said. "I have so many great memories, which I will carry with me for the rest of my life. My career is by no means over; it just means that internationally my time has come to hang up my boots. Domestic cricket is thriving at the moment, and I want to be a part of the set up, as a player, for as long as possible.

"It is also my dream to give back. The Makhaya Ntini Cricket Academy in Mdantsane is gathering momentum, and I am keen to put more energy into the project, and let it be a vehicle for change. I am currently in discussions with CSA about getting involved with their 'Tomorrow' campaign, and give back to its cricket development programmes, which are the same structures I came through."